After unsuccessfully struggling to install Red Hat 9.0 on my Presario 900, I finally threw it out the window (literally) and installed Mandrake 9.1.

It works great. The only problem I'm running into is trying to get the volume control to work. For some reason it won't recognize the Compaq volume control button. I've maxed out the XMMS and system volumes, but it still sounds soft. I'm not sure if this is a setting /configuration problem or if I need to find an updated driver. If anyone's run into this and fixed it, I'd appreciate some direction..

I tried playing some MP3s and wav files using my Inspiron 2650 laptop with Mandrake Linux 9.1 on it and found that pressing the speaker buttons (Fn and buttons with speaker icons on them) didn't work. Noatun has a volume control that works with the laptop (adjusted on screen using the touchpad or mouse).

I had a similar problem with my install. Just keep messing with the volume controls. If you have a Windows dualbooting, you might try increasing the volume there and seeing if that helps.

Have you checked to see if the correct driver is loaded under sndconfig?

Yeah, the correct driver is loaded, Trident. I found the KMix volume control, and was able to raise the volume enough so I can actually hear my CDs. Its just the manual volume control on the keyboard that won't work...but its a moot point now. As long as I can enjoy my music I'm happy..